DTC P0A3C (39): Motor Power Inverter (MPI) Module Overheating

2006 Chevrolet Cobalt SS, 4D Sedan, StandardSECTION DTC P0A3C (39): Motor Power Inverter (MPI) Module Overheating
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Honda Insight and 2010 Honda Insight. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:
  • Before you troubleshoot, record all freeze data and any on-board snapshot, and review the general troubleshooting information (see GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION  ).
  • If the IPU module fan duct is blocked, DTC P0A3C (39) may be detected.
  • If the DTC cannot be cleared, do the troubleshooting for DTC U1204 (55).
  1. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
  2. Clear the DTC with the HDS (see DTC CLEAR  ).
  3. Check for Pending or Confirmed DTCs with the HDS.

    Is DTC P1448 (63) or P1634 (47) indicated? 

    YES  -Do the troubleshooting for DTC P1448 (63) (see DTC P1448 (63): INTELLIGENT POWER UNIT (IPU) MODULE FAN PROBLEM  ) or P1634 (47) (see DTC P1634 (47): MOTOR POWER INVERTER (MPI) MODULE SIGNAL CIRCUIT MALFUNCTION  ).

    NO  -go to step 4.

  4. Check the MPI TEMPERATURE in the DATA LIST with the HDS.

    Is more than 237 °F (114 °C) indicated? 

    YES  -go to step 5.

    NO  -Intermittent failure, the system is OK at this time. Check for a blockage at the IPU module fan inlet duct.

  5. Check the IPU module air duct or the IPU module fan for disconnections, damage, or obstructions, and check the IPU lid installation.

    Are the IPU module air duct, the IPU module fan, and the IPU lid OK? 

    YES  -Replace the MPI module (see MOTOR POWER INVERTER (MPI) MODULE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION  ), then go to step 6.

    NO  -Repair the IPU module air duct, the IPU module fan, or the IPU lid as needed, then go to step 6.

  6. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
  7. Clear the DTC with the HDS.
  8. Check for Pending or Confirmed DTCs with the HDS.

    Is DTC P0A3C (39) indicated? 

    YES  -Check for poor connections or loose terminals at the MCM, the MPI module, and the IPU module fan, then go to step  1.

    NO  -go to step 9.

  9. Monitor the OBD STATUS for DTC P0A3C (39) in the DTCs MENU with the HDS.

    Does the screen indicate PASSED? 

    YES  -Troubleshooting is complete. If any other Pending or Confirmed DTCs were indicated in step 8, go to the indicated DTC's troubleshooting.

    NO  -If the screen indicates FAILED, check for poor connections or loose terminals at the MCM and the IPU module fan. If the screen indicates NOT COMPLETED, keep the ignition switch ON (II) until a result comes on.

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.